Aynalu Village

The tourist village of Aynalu (known as Aynali in the local dialect) is one of the most pristine and visually stunning natural areas in East Azerbaijan Province. It lies in the heart of the Arasbaran forests, in Khoda Afarin County. With its mild mountain climate, the village is 55 km northwest of the city of Kaleybar and 15 km from the village of Ashiqlu (on the bank of the Aras River). With its untouched nature and lush, misty, soothing landscapes, Aynalu is an appealing destination for travellers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The village's tourist camp is run under the supervision of the Department of Environment, with the participation of local residents, and can be reached via the Kaleybar–Abbasabad–Ashiqlu–Aynalu road.

With its mild, mountainous climate, the Aynalu area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. It covers a small part of the Arasbaran forests and, thanks to its high biodiversity, attracts the attention of ecotourism and photography enthusiasts. Animal species such as the red deer (maral), roe deer, leopard, Caucasian black grouse and Caspian snowcock (Qarah Qeshlaq) make it one of the most important wildlife habitats in Iran. The name Aynalu comes from a type of old muzzle-loading rifle known as "Aynali" (Այնալի) in the local language and in Armenian. These rifles are said to have had a metal mirror that reflected light, which amazed people at the time. This feature contributed to the naming of the village.

One of the most notable buildings in the area is the Aynalu Mansion, a historic building from the Qajar era, built on a forested hilltop by the Armenian Tumanians family. This beautiful mansion reflects the art and splendid architecture of the Iranian-Armenian tradition. Although only its walls remain today, it is still one of Aynalu's attractions. To reach Aynalu, travel from the city of Kaleybar toward the village of Ashiqlu, then follow a mountain road to the village. The best time to visit Aynalu is spring and summer, when the area's nature is at its most beautiful. During these seasons you can hike in the forest, camp and watch wildlife.